Everybody has a hobby, a pastime that they do for fun or relaxation in their spare time. Hobby and model stores are set up to serve creative hobby enthusiasts, but different stores serve different needs. Some are set up to serve craft hobbies, like sewing and other artists projects, while others are set up to serve model hobbies. The following are common terms found in the hobby industry.

Scale Modeling – A modeling form where real life items are represented in miniature form, such as cars, trucks and airplanes. Made from either wood or plastic they have to be assembled by the hobbyist. Scale modeling has become incredibly intricate with the development of computer technology and some train displays include very accurate representations of towns and buildings down to very small details.

Military modeling – A subset of scale modeling that refers to reconstructing military equipment such as tanks, ships and airplanes. It also refers to soldier figurines.

Model engineering – Refers to building working models of machinery, like a working combustible engine for a truck or a steam engine for a train. Because this hobby requires large and expensive tools it has declined in popularity, but there are internet website that cater to it.

Model Supply – A type of shop that caters mostly to making scale model replicas of cars, trains and airplanes. They often supply special tools and paints. Sometimes these shops offer special discounts since they often deal directly with manufacturers.

Expositions – Events where hobbyists and dealers can get together and show off their crafts, as well as trade and sell good. These can be small, city-centered events or huge statewide, regional or national events.

Hobby shops are stores that sell kits to construct models of transportation vehicles. The most common kits will be for cars, trucks, airplanes and trains. Some models will be just a figure. A rocket ship or military model are also examples of hobby kits found at commercial hobby stores. Upon completion, these miniature models can simply be displayed throughout the house or on a rack.
Cars, trucks, airplanes and trains could also be sold in kits that you build yourself. Some model kits would allow the object to be radio controlled upon completion. The purpose of these hobbies is to use the wood and materials provided in the kit to craft the miniature model. When it’s completed, it can be painted like the picture included on the box. You may also choose to customize and paint a completely different design.
When looking for a hobby center and dealer in your town, there will likely be larger chain stores as well as local shops to choose from. Chain stores generally have a larger supply and may have some items cheaper than the local independently owned shops. Meanwhile, the local shop may have access to specific items that the larger chain stores wouldn’t have.
An internet search can help find the best shop for your hobby needs. Just remember, sometimes the local stores don’t have a website, however they may still carry the materials you’re looking for. When something gets outdated, the manufacturer might give a discount to the shop allowing them to sell it to you for a wholesale discount. These shops are useful for most hobbies that involve constructing models or miniatures.